Category: Blog

A clogged drain can be a nightmare. Not only does a clogged drain make for unsightly backup of dirty water and debris inside your sink or tub, but these can also be signs of structural damage to your pipes as well. Depending on how long the drains have been clogged, it’s important to be diligent so that you don’t do anything to further damage the inner-workings of the system. Therefore, you must be cautious with how you go about trying to unclog the pipes in your home.

In order to keep your pipes working in great order, here are the easiest ways to unclog your drain. Not only will they get things flowing again, but these methods won’t be harmful for your pipes. This means you’ll have a perfectly flowing plumbing system, without the worry of further damage to your home’s internal system.

They include:

Baking Soda & Vinegar

Drain cleaner and other harsh chemicals can be harmful on your pipes. Luckily, you can make a diluted mixture that will still help to break apart the buildup that is in your drains. Mix 1/3 cups of baking soda with vinegar, and then pour it down the drain at a slow but consistent pace. This combination will start to fizz, which is the reaction that is helping to free things up inside the pipes. After you’re done, flush with hot water and feel free to repeat if necessary.

You may already have baking soda and vinegar around the house, so use these two items to unclog the drains.

A Wire Hanger

You’re going to love just how effective a bent wire hanger can be at unclogging your drains. Start by straightening the hanger it as best you can and then work it down the pipes. Avoid pressing too hard or being too rough, but use enough force to break things free. Wire hangers are great for breaking up hair and other debris that can easily get stuck in the drain, without spending a lot for a fix.

Boiling Water

If you have nothing else available, you may be surprised with how helpful boiling hot water can be. You don’t need anything other than a pot to boil the water in and a stove to warm things up on. Once you’ve reached boiling point, slowly pour it down the drain. You can also use that wire hanger to assist with the process and you should start to notice that the water starts to flow more freely.

A Vacuum

Finally, if all else fails, try using your vacuum before calling a plumber to fix your clogged drain. A vacuum that can handle moisture will be able to suck up liquids from your drain. This process may also help to free up any debris that has gotten stuck in the drains. A powerful vacuum can be incredibly helpful if it’s something you have readily available.

Clogged pipes can be a headache, but you can try these easy ways to unclog your drain and get things flowing again.

Having a small space can make it challenging to decorate during the holidays. You’ll have to make diligent use of the space you have, especially if you plan on adding holiday decorations to really bring out the season. Adding children, pets and other family members to the mix can make things even more challenging.

Although difficult, it’s not impossible to turn your apartment into a winter wonderland. To help you, here are some tips on decorating a small apartment for the holidays.

Make Holiday Projects With The Kids

This is the perfect time of year for you to spend time with your kids. If you don’t have anything to do together, start working on holiday projects that everyone will love. For example, gingerbread houses are festive for the holidays, and you can also leave them out to add decorative touches to your apartment. Get with the kids and brainstorm some holiday projects together, and you’ll be amazed with how festive your small apartment looks.

Add Cards To The Wall

Not sure what to do with all of those old Christmas cards? It’s such a shame to throw them away, but leaving them in boxes doesn’t do much good, either. Instead of getting rid of them, tape your old holiday cards to the wall. Not only does this add holiday decorations, but it also shows others that you keep the cards you receive. It’s a kind gesture and a great holiday decoration idea!

Get Creative With Your Tree

It’s hard to argue that it feels like Christmas without any sort of holiday tree. But if you can’t fit an oversized Blue Spruce into your apartment, that doesn’t mean that you’re completely out of luck. Instead, consider a smaller tree that is easier to fit in your space. Or you may want to put a wall decal tree up as a new tradition. There are plenty of ideas that allow for you to add a Christmas tree to your apartment, even if you are limited on the space you have.

Use Wrapping Paper As Decorations

Storage space comes at a premium when you live in an apartment, which means you’ll want to be creative with things like wrapping paper. After all, the last thing you want is to store an entire roll of wrapping paper for next year if there are only a few strips left. Instead of using up valuable space, add your wrapping paper to the wall as a decorative touch. Not only will you save on space, but you’ll also add a festive feeling to your apartment with this creative idea.

Apartment living offers plenty of benefits. However, your living space may be a bit limited due to the constraints that come from an apartment. To make the most of the space you have and still make your apartment feel festive during this time of year, consider the tips here. A few hours of planning and you’ll be a master at decorating a small apartment for the holidays

With so much going on during the final months of the year, it’s easy to see how the holiday season can quickly turn into a test of endurance instead of a time of rest. Ideally, the holidays would be a time that we spend with those we care for most, while also getting so much needed R&R to get ready for the New Year. But with countless holiday parties, school performances, shopping lists, and so much else going on, it’ll be January before you know it and the holidays will have rushed past you.

Let’s take the holidays back and enjoy the limited time that we get. Here are some tips and ideas for helping to avoid the holiday rush.

Carve Out Time

There will never be enough time in the day for you to finish everything that’s on your list. This will be even more so the case during the holidays when there will be something to do at every turn. Therefore, you’ll need to make the time in your schedule in order to avoid the holiday rush. Even though it may look a bit odd to see Take Time To Rest in your calendar, dedicating time to relax will help you take a moment during the holidays to soak it all in.

Since you already have a lot going on and free time is hard to come by, make sure you carve out time in your schedule to relax and enjoy the holidays.

Disconnect

With so many different Tweets, posts, and other messages being sent to your phone, it’s easy to see why it’s so hard to put down. During the holidays, however, do your best to disconnect during times when you’re with family and close friends. The moments you have with those you care for most are the ones you’ll remember for a lifetime, so disconnect from that phone and pay attention to what’s happening right in front of you.

Involve Others

You’re not the only one who feels overwhelmed by the holiday rush, so consider involving others during the season. That might mean that you give back to those less fortunate, or maybe you just want to spend the holidays with your closest family. Whoever you enjoy spending your time with, slow down this holiday season by sharing it with them.

Enjoy The Moment

Think about how much life has changed since the last holiday season. Not just in your life, but with everything going on around you as well. When you take the time to disconnect from the holiday rush and think about your past year, you’ll notice how important it is to enjoy the simplest of moments. Aside from all of the gift giving and party attending, these are the moments that you’ll share for a lifetime. It only makes sense that you enjoy them as much as possible.

The holidays will be over before you know it. Use these tips as you look to avoid the holiday rush and enjoy the season for all it is.

Shopping on Black Friday can help you save hundreds, if not more, on your holiday shopping this year. The only problem is that you’re not the only one out there who is trying to get the doorbuster deals that are only available for a few hours on the morning after Thanksgiving. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place to find tips on making the most of your Black Friday shopping experience.

Save money, make more of the time you have, and check everything off your checklist with this Black Friday shopping guide.

What Are You Purchasing?

For most, shopping on Black Friday means getting early Christmas presents for your closest family and friends. However, there are plenty of individuals out there who simply want to use the deals on Black Friday to save money for personal purchases. When you start to evaluate who the purchase is for, you may realize that there are more options that you need to consider. Black Friday is about quick purchases and moving onto the next deal, so avoid stalling by knowing what you’ll buy beforehand.

No matter what it is that you’re buying, or who you’re purchasing it for, do your research beforehand. Have a good idea of what it is you’re looking for and it’ll help you to avoid lackadaisically walking around the store during the madness of Black Friday.

What Other Bonus Offers Are Available?

No matter where you go, Black Friday is going to be insanely busy. With so many people going out on Black Friday, companies are doing whatever it takes to get their business. Therefore, look for the deals that offer bonuses and even more. For example, you may be able to earn gift cards or other rewards while shopping on Black Friday, which you can then use for personal purchases later on. There’s nothing better than being rewarded later on for something you did for family and friends during the holidays. Black Friday is the one day of the year for you to soak it all in, so make sure you make the most of everything that is offered.

Protect Yourself

Despite the fact that Black Friday can be a great chance to get killer deals, it’s also a time that can be dangerous as well. With so many people out and in a frantic mood, it’s easy to get caught up in the commotion of it all. Before you go out this Black Friday, know how to stay safe. Begin by going with friends or family as a way to work together. Also make sure that you keep an eye on your wallet or purse to avoid theft.

The holidays have begun and the spirit should be merry. But if things are a bit hectic on Black Friday, remember to protect yourself when you’re out there. Use these tips in this Black Friday shopping guide and you’ll not only find the best deals, but you’ll also stay more safe as well. And when everyone opens their gifts on Christmas morning, you’ll realize it was all worth it.

It’s the perfect time of year to gather the entire family to do something fun. School may be in session and you might even be pulling overtime at work to save up for the holidays. But with so many fall festivals taking place here in Pennsylvania, it’s well worth taking time to enjoy the season.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect date night or you need something the entire family will enjoy, there’s plenty of upcoming local events this fall that you’ll enjoy. Here’s a look at some of our favorites.

50-Mile Fall Classic Bike Ride

You don’t have to be a pro take part in this quickly growing annual bike ride. What started five years ago as a casual event has quickly grown into something much larger. This year, you can take part in the ride at either 10, 25, 50, or 100 miles. Feel free to go at your own pace, as it’s not a competition to see who finishes first. Instead, the 50-Mile Fall Classic Bike Ride is the perfect chance to see the back roads of Pennsylvania like never before. The ride begins in Breinigsville, but it goes throughout all of Lehigh Valley. We’re expecting the biggest showing ever this year, so get ready for a huge event that is quickly becoming a big part of the community.

Fun at Grim’s

You don’t have to spend many falls in Pennsylvania to know that Grim’s is one of the most classic fall traditions that a family can take part in. It seems like every family makes sure to visit Grim’s during the fall, and that’s surely for good reason.

During the fall, Grim’s offers you the opportunity to pick your very own pumpkin from their massive patch. From oversized wonders that Charlie Brown would be jealous of, to the perfect jack-o-lantern that will fit on your desk at work, you will find your special pumpkin at Grim’s.

It doesn’t stop with just pumpkins. Be sure to also come to the farm to pick your own apples as well. There are plenty of fall treats that you may be getting ready to bake this season. What better way to make food for family and friends than with freshly picked apples that come right from our community?

While the kids are here, have their faces painted and let them run through the corn maze. Grim’s has fun for the entire family, which is why you should be sure to visit this fall.

Other Live Action

There are also some other great live action entertainment options coming to town this fall. Comedian Ralphie May will be in town on October 18th. Musician Owl City will also be here on October 13th at the Chameleon Club, as will Willie Nelson on October 17th at the Santander Performing Arts Center. Laugh, dance, and be merry this fall with all of the entertainment options here in Lehigh Valley.

It’s going to be a great fall. Make a new family tradition, meet new people, and enjoy being part of this great community in Pennsylvania.

Capture the taste of fall with some tasty desserts and you’ll be sure to have everyone raving about how great you are in the kitchen. Whether it’s a hint of pumpkin and spice or simply just the feeling of eating pie while the snow falls, there is something special about some of the dessert options that you can get in October.

If you are looking to try something new this fall, here are some festive October desserts that are sure to be a hit.

Apple Cider Doughnuts

Get your day started right with these Apple Cider Doughnuts. If they are a bit too sweet for you to begin your morning with, then pair them with a pumpkin latte in the evening after a tough day on the job. Just be prepared if you take them to work in the morning, because they are sure to be the first thing that coworkers reach for when they simple can’t get away from how creative these tasty doughnuts are.

Apple Cider Cream Pie

Wondering what you’ll do with the rest of that Apple Cider that you used for the doughnuts? Finish off what you have left and make this Apple Cider Cream Pie. It’s the perfect kitchen task for someone with moderate baking skills, and you can serve up to eight people with only three hours of your time. If you can’t get enough Apple Cider this fall, then whip up this cream pie.

Pumpkin Tart with Pistachio Crust and Brittle

Sorry for holding out on a pumpkin recipe for so long, because we know that’s the real reason you’re reading this. After all, there’s no such thing as too much pumpkin during the fall. To begin, this Pumpkin Tart with Pistachio Crust and Brittle may not be the easiest thing to make, but it’s worth the effort. It’s incredibly sweet, so even a 9-inch dish will serve up to 12 people. If you’re looking for something that is similar to pumpkin pie, but plenty different in it’s own right, you’ll really enjoy this pumpkin tart with pistachio crust and brittle.

Pumpkin Mousse

Caution! Don’t click on this link unless you’re ready to go to the store and grab the ingredients in a hurry. This Pumpkin Mousse will make your stomach growl the moment you see it. Once the dessert is made, you’ll be even more pleased with how delicious it is. Two different layers of pumpkin, mixed in with whipped cream and chocolate curls make for a dish you won’t be able to get enough of.

Maple Pecan Pie

Last, but most certainly not least, this Maple Pecan Pie won’t last nearly long enough once everyone gets their hands on it. Pecan Pie is always a favorite during the holidays, and the unique maple additions will make for a special taste. There’s a lot of different pecan pie recipes out there, but this one is certainly a favorite.

This holiday season is going to be a yummy one. Whip up these easy to moderate festive October desserts and you’ll surely get in touch with the season.  

When you live in a beautiful place like Pennsylvania, it makes sense that you’d want to get outside and enjoy the weather as much as possible. Luckily for those that enjoy the wilderness, there are plenty of local places to hike right here in Macungie and nearby areas. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or you want to get in a real workout, here are some local places to hike in Macungie, Allentown, and other nearby locations in Pennsylvania.

Jacobsburg State Park

One of the highlights in our state, Jacobsburg State Park offers plenty of hiking options. The park sprawls out over 1,168-acres, including a variety of different rolling hills that are idea for all skill levels. Jacobsburg Park also offers plenty of other entertainment options within the campgrounds, so plan ahead if you want to bike or even have a picnic during your time here.

Blue Rocks Campgrounds

This specific hiking trail goes from Pulpit Rock to Pinnacle Point, but we love the entire campgrounds here at Blue Rocks. Most people will camp out at Blue Rocks, then hit the trails early in the morning to see a beautiful sunrise. But don’t worry if you aren’t an early riser. Instead, you’ll be quite impressed when hiking throughout Blue Rocks Campgrounds, no matter what time of day it is.

Bushkill Trail

A favorite amongst the locals, Bushkill Trail is part of Jacobsburg State Park. However, since it’s a bit off the beaten path, it doesn’t get load up the same amount of people as some other parts of the park. While you are on Bushkill Trail with your family, be sure to stop by the Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center, where your kids can learn all about the science that’s going on in the park.

South Mountain Trail

This specific trail is located in South Mountain Park, and the trail is an 8.7-mile loop located near Emmaus. If you are looking for a laid back forest trail, then this is your place. There are plenty of running brooks, still ponds, and other natural preserves throughout this park. It’s one of sheer beauty, but also a bit of challenge due to its length. South Mountain Trail is lengthy at nearly 9 miles, but it’s certainly a hike that is well worth every step.

Appalachian Trail – Lehigh Gap

This specific part of the Appalachian Trail is incredibly popular, so be ready for other people to be enjoying themselves as well. From hiking to rock climbing, there’s something for everyone at Lehigh Gap. For those that are looking to get in a hike, there is a 12.6-mile stretch that is accessible throughout the year. Due to its length and multiple different steep inclines, the Lehigh Gap is recommended for experienced hikers. As you work your way towards this pinnacle in the area, know that it’ll be well worth it once you complete this hike.

Outdoorsmen and women who love hiking will be thankful for the amount of options that are available near Macungie and Allentown. Whether you are in town for a visit or call the area home, be sure to visit these great local hiking trails.

Moving into your place is one thing. Furnishing it and making it look amazing, that’s entirely something different. After all, just because you can sign the checks for rent each month, doesn’t mean you have an inner interior designer that will make your place look fab.

Luckily, there are plenty of apps out there that you can use to creatively design your apartment. What’s great about these apps is that they let you move furniture around, adjust certain colors, and play with other features until you find the perfect specifications for your home. This is much easier than, and more cost friendly, than purchasing everything, only to get it home and realize it doesn’t look great.

With so many apps on the market, it’s important that you don’t waste time on the ones that don’t work. Luckily, here are three that do.

Interior Design

Likely the top app on the market, Interior Design is everything you could ever need in one handy tool. Keep in mind that this app is only available on iPad and it does cost $7.99. But when you think about the money, and surely headaches, that you’ll be saving, it’s well worth the investment. This app lets you take complete control of the layout of each room in your home. You can change everything from countertops and flooring, to furniture and television sets. Even with its price tag, Interior Design is going to be worth it when you are moving into your new place and designing it in a way that expresses exactly who you are.

Like That Décor and Furniture

An app that hits on all levels, Like That Décor and Furniture is going to help you find those perfect pieces of furniture to outfit your home with. Simply take a photo of the furniture that you like, search through the massive catalogue until you find something similar, and then have it sent to your home. It’s so easy for you to find your dream furniture, which is why Like That Décor and Furniture is a must-have when moving into your new place.

Color Capture

If you’ve ever spent hours painting the walls of a room in your apartment, only to finish and realize that it’s not quite the hue you wanted, then you’re going to rejoice with the Color Capture app from Benjamin Moore. As you’d probably guess, this app lets you access a database of colors available by Benjamin Moore. You can then find a nearby store that has the color, which means you’ll be getting home projects done more quickly than ever before.

Whether you are looking to repaint your entire apartment or you just want to add a few new pieces of furniture, be sure to have these apps available on your phone. They will help you save money in the long run, by helping you avoid purchasing items that you don’t want and painting walls colors that you don’t like. Even those that don’t have an eye for interior design will benefit from the three best style apps for your apartment.

If you are looking to soak up the final days of summer, then hurry up and pack your bags. No matter where you live in this country, you are never very far from some wonderful activities. Whether you are looking for entertainment that the entire family will enjoy, or something more rugged that will get you in touch personally with nature, you have a variety of options to chose from.

No matter where you are in the country, here are some of the best amusement parks, water parks, and campgrounds to visit this summer.

Amusement Parks

Six Flags Busch Gardens – Plenty of families visit Florida each year for some of the other amusement parks you’ll see on this list. However, if the kids are a bit too old for Disney, then consider Six Flags Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay. This park has tons of great rides that are perfect for the teenagers in your household, so you’ll be sure to have an eventful vacation that everyone enjoys.

Disney World & Disneyland – It’s not question that Disney offers some of the best amusement parks in the world. Whether you are in Orlando or Anaheim, visit Disney for an unforgettable family vacation.

Cedar Point – Instead of flocking to the coast, head to Ohio and visit Cedar Point. This amusement park offers 3 of the top-rated roller coasters in the entire world. Come for thrills, excitement, and so much more if you are in the Midwest near Cedar Point.

Wonderful Water Parks

Splashin’ Safari – Come get wet at Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana. This is a water park that has a African theme, which is sure to keep your entire family amused.

Caribbean Cove – Caribbean Cove is located in Orlando, which makes it the perfect place to cool down on a hot and humid day. With so many other things nearby, setting your destination for Caribbean Cove will help you soak up the rest of summer.

Water World – Located in Colorado, Water World is ranked as one of the top parks in the Midwest. There aren’t many other places where you can whip down a waterfall, while also keeping your eye on the Rocky Mountains in the backdrop. Water World is a great place to visit if you are in the Midwest this summer.

Calming Campgrounds

Grand Canyon National Park – After your day at Water World, set your destination for Grand Canyon National Park. One of the most beautiful landmarks in all of America, you will be in awe once you see the multitude of colors that bounce off the walls during sunset. Grand Canyon National Park is a favorite amongst many American’s, and you can check it off your bucket list this year.

Yosemite National Park – Finally, Yosemite National Park is also a campground worthy of a late summer visit. You’ll see the trees start to turn colors and an entirely new set of wilderness come out during this time of year.

No matter where you are in the country, there are tons of amazing amusement parks, wonderful water parks, and calming campgrounds for you to visit this summer.

Whether it’s the robotic vacuum that you use to clean your home or the tablet that your kids take to school, technology has changed nearly every aspect of life over the last few decades. For the most part, technology continues to make the world a better place. It provides more resources for health, medicine, and education; and there are also plenty of tech toys to enjoy out there as well.

But while technology can do wonders, it also is something that may need special attention in your household. If you are a family that notices you’ve begun to drift apart due to technology, it may be time to step back and evaluate the impact it has on your life. In some cases, changes may be necessary in your household.

If it has consumed your life and your family, here is a look at taking a step back from technology and the benefits it may have.

Why We Need To Take A Step Back

One of the most critical reasons that people start to question whether or not they should take a step back from technology is due to the impact it may have on their family. For those that notice that family dinners are no longer about conversation, but instead have shifted to everyone’s eyes glued to their own smartphone, then it’s obvious to see why it may be time to take a step back from technology.

By evaluating your technology usage and then making the changes necessary, you can spend more time with those that mean the most to you. If it’s time that your family does this evaluation, then consider how many more experiences you’ll be able to take part in together when you eliminate technology from the equation.

How To Step Back From Technology

Now that you are thinking, and realizing, that it may be time to take a step back from technology, the question shifts to how you can do so. The first step to this will be to discuss things with your family. We live in an age where technology may be imperative, if not ingrained, in the household. If you are deciding to go through and make big changes, it’s only fair that you tell everyone why you are doing so.

After everyone in your household knows the importance of stepping back from technology, you can then go into further details. Some suggestions include:

• Limit technology time for children in the evening.
• Implement family game nights that shift focus from technology to more hands-on activities.
• Monitoring technology usage when in place.

Technology, for the most part, is one of the greatest parts of our generation. But with as many benefits as technology provides, it is also something that can take away from our traditional set of values.

If you are hoping to bring those values back to the forefront of your family, consider this insight mentioned here for taking a step back from technology when it is needed most in your household.